Let’s face it, every year losing weight is usually high on my resolution list. There are so many diets, exercise programs and supplements claiming you will lose weight in a matter of months or even days. However, I’ve found a few tips that help me lose some of that weight by not going to the extreme. These are tips that are pretty simple to do if you stay focused and really have the desire to lose some stubborn weight.

1. Introduce more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts into your diet. This can be as simple as adding a fruit or veggie to your lunch, eating some nuts as a snack instead of potato chips, buying whole grains. I love making smoothies or having parfaits loaded with fruits and veggies. It’s a yummy way to get those in your diet.
2. Eat when you are sitting down, not when you are multi-tasking. This may sound funny, but have you noticed when you are running errands, or running around your house you will grab the easiest and usually not very healthy food choice? If you take the time to sit and eat your meals you will be more aware of what you are putting in your body and how many times you do it. If you unconsciously eat, it will add up and add on the calories.
3. Don’t eat late at night. Ideally you’ll want to take out sugar and sweets, but it’s hard. If you really like a little treat, try to eat it earlier in the day and after a meal. That way you will more likely be full and wont’ eat as much. If you are hungry, you’ll be eating a lot more of that ice cream, pie or cake. Try to just take a little bit and be done. At nights try to eat a food high in protein which will help you stay full longer and help you feel good in the mornings.
4. Eat a nutritious breakfast. I’ve always wondered why this was so important. Then one morning, I found myself not having the time for breakfast. I got back home and just started snacking on everything I saw. It was terrible, I was so hungry and for the rest of the afternoon just snacked on everything I could. No wonder a good breakfast is important.
5. Choose to be active. You have choices every day. Do you choose the stairs? Do you choose the closest parking spot? Do you choose to sit for most of the day? Do you take walks or join and exercise program? Start changing your choices to be more active. It’s always good to burn off calories and it’s good for your emotional state as well. Find a new exercise program that your city or near by gym is offering. Call up a friend and go on walks.